Installation / Setup Guide

Installation / Setup Guide
Please Note: This product is Legal in California
only for racing vehicles which may never be used
upon a highway. The user shall determine suitability of the
product for his or her use. Installation and use on a pollutioncontrolled vehicle constitutes tampering under the U.S. EPA
guidelines and can lead to substantial fines. Review your
application and check your local laws before installing.
Part # 309-460 for 2001-2010 Softail®,
2002-2007 Touring, & 2007-2009 XL
Thank you for purchasing a ThunderMax ECM!
Please read through the following instructions before
beginning the installation procedure. Following these
instructions will ensure that the ECM is installed and
setup properly for optimal results. If you have any
problems or questions, please refer to the TMaxII Tuning
.pdf Manual, included on the CD (Help Menu) with this
package.
Record serial number NOW on your
warranty card, and below for your records!
Serial # TMRM
All Models - Oxygen Sensor Installation Tips Your
ThunderMax kit includes robust Wide-Band oxygen
sensors that report data from every cylinder
combustion event to the ThunderMax ECM for automatic
air/fuel corrections. These sensors replace the factory
supplied narrow-band sensors first used on 2007-2010
bikes and in most cases are direct bolt-in replacements.
2001-2006 models will require the addition of 18mm
sensor bungs to the exhaust header pipes if yours don’t
currently have them installed. Installation of the wide
band sensors into most bung-equipped headpipes
presents no clearance problems; however, some pipe
brands may require exhaust pipe modification or sensor
bung relocation for interference-free installation. The
sensors must mount freely without contacting
surrounding components. If this is not possible, do
not attempt to bend or modify the sensor in any way
as it is a sensitive electronic component and will be
damaged if you do.
Modify the pipe if required for
clearance.
Weld-in bungs are available for exhaust
systems not equipped with bungs or if current bungs
present clearance issues. Bungs should be located no
more than 3-4” from the head/pipe connection (for ideal
location, refer to the 2007 factory location). Weld-in
bungs are available in straight or angled style from many
industry sources; see video installation link on page 8.
After installation, route the sensor harness away from
the engine and along the frame when possible, above
the lowest frame point to avoid the possibility of dragging
ground during operation. Avoid routing harnesses
where engine movement or sharp edges can contact
and cut into the harnesses or connector plugs. Tie
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the harnesses to the frame or existing component
harnesses, taking care to avoid contact with any
vibrating component that may chaff the sheathing or
wires. Some disassembly of bike components may be
required for best harness routing. Remove any
previously installed ancillary tuning device including
oxygen sensor eliminators that may be plugged into
the factory oxygen sensor harness.
Step 1 Insert the TMaxII CD
into your computer. TMaxII
will automatically open the
InstallShield Wizard when the
computer finds the CD-Rom.
Follow the instructions and
install the software on your
computer.
All Models - A packet of dielectric grease is included
with your ThunderMax. When installing the ECM, apply
the provided dielectric grease to the inside lip of the
ThunderMax ECM to ensure the rubber weather seal
does not bind during installation and across the clear
case on the 36 pin ECM connector. Spread the grease
across all of the female terminal openings, making sure
the grease penetrates openings. This grease will greatly
improve vital conductivity between the ThunderMax and
the 36 pin connector.
Also apply dielectric grease
to the ThunderMax oxygen
sensor harness connector
terminals
for
improved
conductivity, and to the outer
housing to prevent binding
upon installation to the ECM.
Step 2 - Module Installation - Softail® Models
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(Skip ahead for other models)
FX/FLST-A:
Remove
the seat to access the
factory
Electronic
Control Module (ECM).
Slide the fuse box to the
left to release it from the
plastic bracket.
Open
the
fuse
box
and
remove the main fuse.
FX/FLST-F: Lift the steel fuse box mounting bracket to
expose the rear of the plastic battery tray / wiring caddy.
Firmly push the caddy forward to create space needed
to feed the “Front” ThunderMax oxygen sensor harness
(shown in yellow) connector through the opening
between the frame and the caddy, exiting behind the
right wing of the oil tank.
FX/FLST-B: Remove the
battery cables (negative
first) and remove battery
from
the motorcycle.
Remove any previously
installed
ancillary
tuning device including
oxygen
sensor
eliminators that may be
plugged
into
the
factory oxygen sensor
harness.
FX/FLST-C: Remove the (4) mounting nuts holding the
factory ECM in place and lift the ECM from the mounting
bracket. Depress the latch on the main connector and
remove the factory ECM from the wiring harness.
FX/FLST-D: Unplug the tail light harness connector plug.
Remove the (2) bolts holding the steel fuse box
mounting bracket (and seat support for FLSTSB models;
temporarily remove the support bracket only).
FX/FLST-G: Install the ThunderMax ECM onto the ECM
caddy studs without nuts; insert the oxygen harness
connector into the ECM with the imprinted “ThunderMax”
logo facing up. Tighten the (2) Phillips connector screws.
Lift ECM and install main 36-pin connector, ensuring it is
fully seated and latched. Replace ECM onto studs.
FX/FLST-E: Clip the right rear wire tie holding the
harness trough to the frame as shown.
FX/FLST-H: Unplug and remove factory oxygen sensors
from exhaust if equipped (rear sensor plug located under
oil tank). Rubber caps are included to cap off the factory
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harnesses. Install both ThunderMax oxygen sensors
into exhaust pipes and tighten.
FX/FLST-I: Route rear sensor harness under oil tank,
feeding connector plug up though opening in the right
front bottom of the battery cavity in the oil tank.
FX/FLST-J: Position rear oxygen sensor harness
connector on top of oil tank, just forward of the battery
under battery ground cable as shown.
FX/FLST-L: Securely tie all harnesses to the frame
and/or other harnesses. Avoid routing harnesses where
engine movement, sharp edges, exhaust systems or hot
engine components can contact and cut into the
harnesses or connector plugs. Be aware that swingarm
movement at full suspension compression reduces the
clearance opening at the rear of the oil tank where the
front oxygen sensor harness is routed (tie harness
inboard of swingarm).
FX/FLST-M: Install steel fuse box mounting bracket
(with seat support for FLSTSB models). Install the (4)
ECM mounting nuts, plug in the tail light harness plug,
re-install the battery (positive cable first). Re-install the
main fuse. Replace the fuse box cap and attach the
fuse box to the plastic fuse box bracket. Move to Step 3.
Step 2 - Module Installation - Touring Models
Remove any previously installed ancillary tuning
device including oxygen sensor eliminators that may
be plugged into the factory oxygen sensor harness.
FL-A Remove the
factory
oxygen
sensors (if equipped)
and install supplied
Wide-Band
sensors
into exhaust pipes.
Rubber
caps
are
included to cap off the
factory oxygen harness connectors on 2007 models.
FX/FLST-K: Route front oxygen sensor harness behind
and under transmission with connector plug just under
the engine/transmission mounting boss; connect to front
oxygen sensor.
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FL-B: Remove the right saddlebag and side cover from
the bike. Locate the fuse box that contains the ECM
fuse, remove fuse labeled “ECM POW ER”. Depress tab
on main ECM harness plug and unplug the ECM wiring
harness from the factory ECM.
FL-C: Remove the
factory ECM from the
motorcycle, the ECM
is
held
to
the
electrical caddy by
socket
head
cap
screws. The screws
have a locking agent
on them and can be
difficult to remove.
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Work the screws back and forth slowly to break them
loose.
If the screw and brass threaded insert turn
together in the plastic, use a socket on an electric or air
impact driver to spin them as a unit; the heat generated
will release the thread
glue.
Route the
FL-D:
AutoTune
harnesses
through the frame opening
behind the transmission
before
positioning
the
ECM for installation.
FL-E:
Insert the greased
oxygen harness connector into
the ECM with the imprinted
“ThunderMax” logo facing up.
Tighten
the
(2)
Phillips
connector screws. Install the
ThunderMax ECM to the ECM
caddy using original screws.
FL-F:
Route oxygen
sensor lead from rear
pipe under starter and
through frame opening
behind
transmission;
connect to ‘rear’ ECM
harness
plug.
O2
Route front harness
through frame opening
and behind oil filler
spout.
Position connector along lower frame rail
between engine and transmission.
FL-G: Route oxygen sensor lead from front pipe along
right frame rail and connect to ‘front’ O2 harness plug.
Securely tie all harnesses to the frame and/or other
harnesses with supplied
wire ties.
Avoid sharp
turns
while
routing
harnesses
and
avoid
areas
where
engine
movement, sharp edges,
exhaust systems or hot
engine components can
contact and cut into the
harnesses or connector
plugs.
Bundle
excess
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harness together and tie to ECM caddy where it will be
unaffected by swingarm movement and other moving
components.
FL-H:
Connect the
greased
36-pin
ECM
connector
to
the
ThunderMax ECM.
Reinstall the ECM fuse and
secure the fuse box back
into position on the ECM
caddy. Move to Step 3.
Step 2 - Module Installation – 07-09XL Models
Remove any previously installed ancillary tuning
device including oxygen sensor eliminators that may
be plugged into the factory oxygen sensor harness.
XL-A Remove the
factory
oxygen
sensors and install
supplied
WideBand sensors into
exhaust
pipes.
Rubber caps are
included to cap off
the factory oxygen sensor harness connectors.
XL-B Remove the
left
side
cover,
locate and remove
the
ECM
Power
fuse.
Remove the
seat, unplug and
remove the factory
ECM.
Feed
the
ThunderMax oxygen
sensor harness and 12-pin ECM connector between the
battery and frame as shown.
XL-C Insert the greased
oxygen harness connector
into the ECM with the
imprinted
“ThunderMax”
logo facing up; tighten the
(2)
Phillips
connector
screws.
Connect the
greased
36-pin
ECM
connector
to
the
ThunderMax ECM and
install the ThunderMax to
the ECM caddy.
Reinstall the ECM fuse.
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XL-D Route
the
front
oxygen sensor
lead along the
left front frame
tube to under
the fuel tank
as
shown.
Route
the
front ECM O2
harness from
the battery area along the frame backbone under the left
side of the fuel tank and connect to the sensor. Connect
the rear sensor lead to the rear ECM O 2 harness and
carefully bundle the excess harness and attach to the
frame backbone above the starter.
Securely tie all
harnesses to the frame and/or other harnesses with
supplied wire ties.
Avoid sharp turns while routing
harnesses and avoid areas where engine movement,
sharp edges, exhaust systems or hot engine
components can contact and cut into the harnesses or
connector plugs. Move to Step 3.
Step 3 – Choosing and Installing a Map
Now it’s time to turn your
attention
back
to
your
computer. Open your TMaxII
Tuner software (there is no
need to link to the module at
this time). To ensure you are
working with the latest version
of TMaxII Tuner software and
have the most up-to-date
selection of base maps, it is
suggested that you establish an
Internet connection and click
[Configure] on the tool bar,
then [TMax Software Update] and follow the prompts.
After uploading new
software (if found),
next click [EFI Maps]
[EFI Map Listings
(Throttle
Cable)],
double-click any map;
when the Base Map
Name Encoding window appears, click the [Check
Internet For Updates] button and follow the prompts.
Close window after updating.
_Loading Interface Drivers and VIN Number_
Next, the TMaxII Tuner
software
for
the
ThunderMax
EFI
systems contains the
correct
Windows®
drivers required for
USB interface with the
ECM. Connect the USB
cable to the specific
port on your PC that
the driver will be
configured to, and the
ThunderMax ECM connection port located under the
retainer plate (loosen retainer screw, rotate retainer plate
and open rubber weather seal). Open the TMaxII Tuner
software and turn the bike’s ignition and handlebar
switches to the on/run positions. Follow the prompt
instructions for installing the driver.
Next, go to the menu bar and select [Tuning Maps]
[Module Configuration] [Module Service Data]. Under
the Module Information tab, click [Edit VIN/SRN] and
enter your motorcycle’s serial number (CAPITAL
LETTERS ONLY), click [OK] then [Close]. Turn off
ignition when finished. Once your software, map
databases and USB driver are verified as up-to-date, go
to selecting and loading your base map.
Selecting A Base Map File from the Database
The TMaxII Tuner EFI Map Database will help you
chose a Base Map for your application. To open the Map
Database, select from
the toolbar [EFI Maps]
[EFI Map Listings
(Throttle
Cable)].
Available base maps
will be shown (if the
[Show
All
Maps]
button at the lower left of the screen is highlighted, click
it to clear any filtered maps so all maps will be shown).
You will now be able to select the closest Base Map for
your engine combination.
Please read the following
section on Key Elements before proceeding; this will
help you quickly narrow down the selection of available
Base Maps and find the right one for your application.
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Base Map “Key Elements”
The reason for selecting a Base Map by “Key Elements”
is to find the closest Base Map match available for your
combination, identified by the most critical components.
These include:
Engine Size. A correct match to the engine’s stroke is
more important than an exact match of engine
displacement. Stroke and cam timing influence engine
pumping pressures. The correct shape of spark curves
in the base map will be best matched by engine stroke.
Throttle Body / Injector Size. Choose the throttle body
and injectors being used for your application (most
applications will be “stock” unless performance parts
have been installed).
Camshaft. Many popular short duration aftermarket
cams (less than 240° intake duration) perform well when
using a stock-cam base map. With broader timing cams
(more than 240° intake duration) you may find that
choosing a base map calibration developed for an
aftermarket cam to be a better choice.
Exhaust System Design. There is no need for concern
if an exact brand match does not appear in the Base
Map library. Simply select the Base Map with the
closest style of exhaust system (Slip-ons, 2:1, True
Duals). Choosing the closest style will yield excellent
results. Group your exhaust system in one of the
following three categories:
Factory Head Pipe with Crossover:
Dual exhaust
systems with a cross over pipe that connects the front
and rear exhaust pipes. Typically used with accessory
slip-on mufflers. Bikes with stock catalyst-equipped
mufflers require maps designed for use with
catalyst-equipped systems or damage to the catalyst
can result. ThunderMax maps for use with 96” and
103” internally stock engines are catalyst-safe maps.
2 into 1: Both head pipes converge into one collector.
True Dual Exhaust: 100% separate exhaust pipes.
ThunderMax’s AutoTune system allows you to choose a
Base Map that isn’t an exact match of components and
still have excellent results. Even if your combination isn’t
listed, select the closest Map match and let the
AutoTune create your custom Base Map while you ride.
The closer the match that the Base Map is to your
combination, the faster the system will achieve the
desired AFR Targets. This simply means less time to
establish and maintain a great tune. Once you have
allowed the system to establish custom AFR fuel-flow
adjustments, you can use the AutoMap function to
create an all-new Base Map based upon the AutoTuned
learned adjustments. To use the AutoMap feature, see
the tuning manual for the procedure on how to create
your custom base map using AutoMap.
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Base Map File Browsing / Selection
With your Base Map Definitions window open, you may
begin narrowing down the list of maps for your
application. To sort the map files by a particular key
element, left-click on the column heading to arrange the
Base Maps in ‘key element’ alpha/numeric order. All of
the columns can be sorted in this manner for filtering
purposes. Filter the maps to identify the base map that
best matches your application by following these steps:
First (in order of importance) place your curser over the
‘Family’ heading and left-click to change the sort order
of that column. Place your mouse pointer over you
bike’s family match and right-click to filter out no-match
applications from the list. Tip - Notice that the [Show
All Maps] button at the bottom left is now selectable. At
any time if you want to return to the complete library
listing, select the [Show All Maps] button and you will
start over with all Base Map Files displayed.
Second, right-click the engine size under ‘Engine Type’
that matches your engine. All maps that do not match
your selection will be filtered from the screen.
Third, place your curser over the ‘Throttle’ column and
right click your match (injector size is more important
than throttle body size if you have to choose).
Fourth, right-click the ‘Cam’ that closest matches your
application.
Fifth, right click the ‘Exhaust’ that closest matches your
application.
Keep right-clicking the application columns until you
have located the best map match (in the case of
identical maps, choose the latest date). Highlight the
map you’ve chosen (left-click; blue bar indicates
selected map) and click the [Close] button.
Step 4 This brings you to the ‘Base Map Name
Encoding’ page, from which you can review the map
parameters. Once verified, click the [Load BaseMap]
button to load the map into the software.
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Note - If you’re still unsure of
which Base Map to select,
please email the specifications
of your Key Elements to
Support@Thunder-Max.com.
Please title the email “Base
Map Selection” for a faster
response.
the tool bar and select [Clear “Learned Fuel
Adjustments (CLP OFFSET)”]. These steps ensure
you will be starting with a “clean slate” Base Map.
IMPORTANT STEP BEFORE STARTING
Step 5 Next, go to the
[Tuning Maps] Tree and click
the [+] sign next to [Module Configuration] to reveal
the [Basic Settings] command.
Open the Basic
Settings window and click the [Speedo Cal] button (list
window appears).
Verify that the Speedometer Calibration is set for your
year and model motorcycle based on the chart. If it is,
click [Cancel]; if it is not, enter the correct value and
click [OK], then [Close] the Basic Settings window.
Step 6 Now that the Base Map is loaded into the
TMaxII Tuner software; you must ‘Write’ (transfer)
the Base Map to your ThunderMax ECM. With the
communication cable connected, linking to the module is
now automatically performed with the TMaxII Tuner
software when the handle bar and key switch are in the
on/run positions. The red [Link] button turns green to
indicate a successful link.
Once linked, from the toolbar, click [File] [Write Module
Maps and Settings], answer [OK] to the message that
informs you that you are about to overwrite the current
map in the module; the transfer bar appears during the
map load. Once the Base Map has been written to the
module, clear any active Diagnostic Code readings and
Learned Fuel Adjustments that may have been created
during the live module testing session that each
ThunderMax module must pass. W hile linked, from the
Tuning
Tree
select
[Module
Configuration]
[Diagnostic Codes].
When the Diagnostic Codes
window appears, select [Clear Diagnostic Codes]. After
completing this step, proceed to Map Editing menu on
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Step 7 - Initialization Procedure
This procedure allows the ThunderMax to “learn” the
“home“ position for the Idle Air Control (IAC) motor. This
is the only setting within the system that is not retained
during 12 volt power interruption. It is required only for
new module installation, or when interruption of 12v
power takes place. Example: battery change, removal of
maxi fuse, etc.
Turn the ignition switch on and the
handlebar rocker switch to run (without starting the
engine) for 30 seconds, uninterrupted. Cycle the ignition
switch off for 30 seconds (time it) and then back on for
30 seconds. Repeat the 30 on / 30 off cycles three
rd
times; after the 3 off cycle, start the engine. Let the
motorcycle idle on its own for 15 seconds. Cycle the
ignition off, then restart the motorcycle; normal idle
speed should be attained depending on engine
temperature. Warm-up cycle will have slightly elevated
idle speed (approximately 1200 rpm) until engine
reaches operating temperature.
To disconnect from the PC, click
the Unlink button (turns to red),
remove the USB cable and snap
the weather seal plug into the
USB cable port. Position the
retainer plate over the weather
seal and tighten the retainer plate screw.
If during this process you encounter wandering or
unstable idle, the map selected may not be the best
match for your application, or a mechanical problem may
be present on your motorcycle. Please contact Product
Support (from your toolbar, select [TMax AutoSupport]
[Collect TMax Support Data] and follow the prompts
(Internet connection required). This process copies your
map and adjustments and automatically transmits the
data to Product Support for evaluation.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed and
set up your ThunderMax ECM. Now it’s time to ride the
bike and let ThunderMax optimize your EFI system!
Several riding sessions that allow the engine to reach
normal operating temperature should be completed with
as much variation in terrain and RPM as possible.
During this process, the IAC virtual stops are further
refined and your air/fuel ratio is automatically adjusted to
the map’s targets. Your ThunderMax customizes your
map based on your engine, ambient conditions and your
riding habits. Once several sessions have been logged,
link to your ThunderMax and select [TMax Module
Control Center] for an automatic analysis of the
adjustments that have been made, and follow prompts
for further action if more optimization is suggested.
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Need Help?
If you have any
questions regarding
installation or
implementation of
this system, please
use the tools
located under the
[Help] menu on the
toolbar.
We have included many easy-to-use features for
supporting and enriching your ThunderMax experience.
A full tuning manual, links to online support documents
and sites as well as the ability for you to easily attach a
map or recorded engine monitoring log to an email
directly to our support department are found here.
Special Note for International Model Bikes with
Active Exhaust Enabled: If your bike is equipped with
a working Active Exhaust Valve, you must unplug the
active exhaust harness before linking to the module, as
the AEV circuitry conflicts with the communication
stream. You can re-connect the harness after unlinking.
If the stock exhaust has been changed, disregard this
step. ThunderMax does not support active exhaust.
TIPS AND GENERAL INFORMATION
•
Enter your VIN (motorcycle serial number) into your module as described in Step 3 to allow your ThunderMax
to be compatible with H-D®’s Digital Tech as well as certain H-D® add-ons such as accessory speedometers.
•
System Updates are available through TMaxII with an internet connection. Software, Firmware and Map
updates can be downloaded; dealers, tuners and end users should check frequently for updates.
•
TMax-ModuleControlCenter provides a snapshot of AutoTuned fuel flow adjustments, RPM time logs in
increments of 100 RPM’s, engine temperature logs and diagnostic codes.
Valuable information about the
condition of your tune and how you ride. AutoMap, located within the [TMax-ModuleControlCenter], creates a
custom base map based on AutoTuned fuel flow adjustments. Create a custom base map with just a few clicks!
•
International (non-US) model notes – ThunderMax does not support active intake/exhaust functions.
•
When the TMaxII program is opened, it will automatically retrieve and open the last map that was open.
•
AFR Correction vs. Engine Temperature page is used to adjust warm-up AFR’s. If the engine requires more
fuel during warm-up (start to 200°), use this function to adjust. See TMaxII Tuning Manual for procedures.
•
Air/Fuel-TPS @ RPM These pages reflect desired targets of AFR to throttle position at every 256 RPM.
Example: if you desire a leaner mixture for added fuel economy then you can easily enhance multi-tiered AFR
targets at specific throttle positions and RPM’s that will be learned during closed loop processing. When these
pages are open, you can view the target AFR by clicking on a dot and tapping the space bar to view the tar get at
a specific throttle position for that RPM. Use arrow keys to raise/lower targets.
•
Interrupting 12v power to the module (battery service/replacement) requires system to be re-initialized (Step 7).
Check battery terminal tightness as part of routine service (like during oil changes); avoid stacking accessory
power leads onto main battery cables. If equipped with dual battery post ports, connect accessories separately.
•
When a new map is installed any existing learned fuel adjustments need to be cleared [Map Editing] [Clear
Learned Fuel Adjustments]. Linking or editing an existing map within the module does not require above steps.
•
Fuel Pressure Should Be Checked during periodic service; this is also the first thing to check should you
experience sudden or gradual decreasing performance. For any EFI system to operate properly, your fuel system
should build and maintain 55-62 PSI of fuel pressure; your dealer can perform this simple test quickly.
•
Save your edited maps to your hard drive using the [Save As] command. Document the changes in [Map
Notes] located under [EFI Maps] on the toolbar. These notes are stored with the saved map; remember to edit
them when making changes for future reference.
•
Oxygen Sensor Care: Items that can damage or shorten the life of your sensors:
Leaded fuel – Race fuel or fuel additive (i.e. octane boost)
Oil deposits from oil consumption problems,
Excessive moisture exposure
Excessive (extreme) heat
There is no warranty on sensors. Replacement P/N is 309-355.
Scan with smart phone for exhaust bung installation video --->
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